Raymond Muratalla took a significant step up in competition, delivering a dominant performance over 12 rounds against Zaur Abdullaev at the Pechanga Arena in California. The judges` scores reflected Muratalla`s clear superiority: Steve Weisfeld saw it 118-110, and both Dennis O’Connell and David Sutherland scored it even wider at 119-109.
With IBF lightweight champion Vasiliy Lomachenko sidelined (reportedly due to a back injury), the second-ranked (Abdullaev) and fourth-ranked (Muratalla) contenders faced off for the Interim IBF lightweight title, aiming to fill the vacant spot.
The 28-year-old Muratalla, nicknamed `Danger`, showcased a significant advantage in hand speed. He effectively landed uppercuts between Abdullaev`s consistent jabs as the 31-year-old Russian advanced with a high guard.
By the end of the first third of the fight, Abdullaev found it difficult to close the distance and land his punches. Muratalla had won the initial four rounds comfortably, utilizing his superior speed.
The challenger from Dydymkin, Russia, recognized the need for a strategic shift to improve his chances, especially maintaining his perfect record (9-0, 5 KOs) since his 2019 loss to Devin Haney. He initiated a change in round five with a combination that appeared to briefly trouble Muratalla.
In his corner, trainer Robert Garcia urged Muratalla, the betting favorite, to focus more on defense while continuing to use the uppercut. Although Muratalla had a notable amateur history, including three wins over Ryan Garcia, he had not previously fought 12 rounds as a professional. Abdullaev`s strategy likely aimed to test Muratalla`s stamina in the later rounds, but the Russian`s activity significantly dropped off as the championship rounds began.
Abdullaev maintained a predictable, cautious approach throughout the fight and failed to disrupt Muratalla`s rhythm or movements. Referee Thomas Taylor had little work to do as the bout was fought cleanly. Abdullaev suffered a bloody nose in the 11th round, while Muratalla remained composed and in control.
Previously ranked No. 1 by the WBO, Muratalla`s calculated performance over 12 rounds earned him the Interim IBF title. This victory potentially sets him up for a future high-profile fight.
With this win, Muratalla improves his professional record to 23-0 with 17 knockouts. Abdullaev, a former amateur standout, drops to 20-2 (12 KOs) and may need to rebuild his career upon returning to Russia. ESPN`s Mark Kriegel`s unofficial ringside scorecard also reflected a wide margin for Muratalla, 118-110, aligning with the official judges` decisions.
Following the fight, Muratalla commented, “Thanks to my team, my defense is something we’ve been working on a lot,” responding good-naturedly after Mark Kriegel commented on his appearance despite the fight.
He also expressed his aspirations, stating, “It will be an honor to fight him [Lomachenko] and have his name on my resume.” He added that he is “not focused on [Keyshawn Davis]” at this time.
